Washington

The clearest pattern is Washington at Chepstow. He has won two of his three races there, including his most recent victory on 12 October 2025, and the trainer explicitly noted that he thrives when ground conditions suit him—particularly fast, dry ground. Equally striking is the partnership with Paul O'Brien. In six races together, they have three wins, a 50% success rate that is far above Washington's typical performance. When O'Brien is in the saddle and conditions favour the horse, something clicks. Strip away the recent dry spell—seven races without a win—and these details suggest Washington is not a horse in decline so much as one whose best chances come at specific venues and in specific circumstances. The trainer's observation that he took "time to come right" suggests patience has been rewarded, not that he is a flash in the pan.

At his current age, Washington's window may be narrowing, but Derham clearly has plans. The trainer mentioned the possibility of Doncaster in December and eyeing the spring festivals when ground conditions are fast and firm. His rating has climbed, which makes races harder to win, but he remains engaged and active. For a ten-year-old with limited wins, Washington's story is not one of failure but of a horse that has finally found his level and his people.